| Penelope’s gives students cash and closet space |
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| Written by Julia Evelsizer, Staff Writer |
| Monday, 21 January 2013 14:04 |
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Prom season is quickly approaching, and high school girls are on the hunt for the perfect prom dress. This may not sound important to women attending a university, but many college girls may still have a gown or two in the back of their closet, hardly worn and collecting dust. Sound familiar? Penelope’s, a fine women’s resale shop on North Main Street in Bloomington is the perfect place to sell those barely worn prom and homecoming dresses, as well as other gently used clothing. Penelope’s consigns women’s gently used, upscale clothing and accessories. The store has been open for 20 years and is currently owned by Lynne Norris. “It’s a family affair,” Norris said. “If we are working together, there is never a dull moment. We like to have fun.” The store is also a great shopping option for college women. “We are extremely friendly on the college budget, especially since we carry a wide variety of items from jeans, to sweaters, dresses and even interview suits for that next step into the professional world,” Norris said.  Cally Lindenmier/Photographer: Lynne Norris, owner of Penelope’s, a fine women’s resale shop in downtown Bloomington, hangs up a prom dress for sale on Wednesday afternoon. Penelope’s provides gently worn upscale clothing year round and is currently stocking seasonal items such as prom dresses and formal wear for the upcoming months. Penelope’s is unlike other stores in the area because there are fresh items available every week. “Many of our regular customers say they love to come to us first if
they are looking for something specific,” Norris said. “Chances are we
have it, and they don’t have to spend hours searching store after store
at the mall.” Penelope’s carries many popular brands including Express, The
Limited, Banana Republic, J Crew and Free People. These items are sold
at up to a quarter of the original price. The store also sells
high-fashion clothing at discounted prices. “The most interesting pieces that come through the store are the
high-end designer pieces like Prada, Gucci and Louis Vuitton bags, or
Diane von Furstenberg and Oscar de la Renta dresses. The quality and
craftsmanship of these items are amazing, and we get to sell them at a
fraction of what they originally cost,” Norris said. The process of consigning clothes is simple. “Items can be brought in on Tuesdays without an appointment, but any
other day requires an appointment,” Norris said. “We’ll take a look at
the items and determine what we can consign for you.” The employees look at the brand, style, condition and season of the
items. Whatever items the store decides to keep will be for sale for 75
days. “If your items sell, you will receive a check for 40 percent of the
selling price,” Norris said. “If any items don’t sell, they can
be picked back up or donated by Penelope’s to a women’s shelter,” she
added. The store is currently looking for transitional pieces such as
lightweight long sleeve shirts, capris, light jackets and spring
clothing. With prom season right around the corner, the store will
consign any current prom gowns that are clean and in excellent
condition. “Some prom dresses can sell for up to $300. Unlike the 40 percent
for regular items at the store, the consignor receives 50 percent of the
selling price for a prom dress,” Norris said. Penelope’s also has a great rewards program for their frequent
shoppers. For every $150 a customer spends, they will receive $10 to
use on their next visit. To sign up for the rewards program, customers
can either download the free “Paycloud” app for Android and iPhone
devices, or go into Penelope’s and fill out a form. College students want to be thrifty, and Penelope’s is a great place
to make a little cash as well as pick up a new pair of boots, or even a
Prada bag at an unbeatable price. “We have a fresh, fun and relaxing atmosphere. We will provide
honest fashion advice and helpful suggestions,” Norris said. “Since we
have been in this area for so long, we have a good idea on what our
market is looking for. We really strive to continue to consign and carry
what we think you need.” More information on the consignment process or the clothing itself
at Penelope’s can be found at www.consignpenelopes.com or by calling
309-828-9155. |
